A Complete Guide to Riyadh for First-Time Visitors

First time in Riyadh? No problem—this city isn’t your average desert stopover but a mix of skyscrapers, camel burgers (yes, real camel), and shopping malls that feel like space stations. From the ultra-modern King Abdullah Financial District to centuries-old mudbrick forts, Riyadh has everything a tourist could ask for. Don’t worry if you have no idea what to wear or where to eat because this guide has you covered. Let’s get started, shwaya shwaya (that’s Arabic for “slowly”).

Visiting Riyadh in July is basically signing up to be shawarma-ed. The real magic happens between November and March when the city finally cools down. Temperatures are between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), the skies are clear, and walking outside doesn’t feel like a punishment. This is the peak season for outdoor festivals like Riyadh Season, where you’ll find pop-up sushi joints to K-pop concerts in the desert (no, we’re not making that up). Avoid summer (June to August) while Spring (April-May) isn’t too bad, but dust storms like to RSVP without warning.

Riyadh has limited pedestrian infrastructure, so residents and visitors use cars. Careem and Uber operate 24/7 and are the easiest option for tourists. Taxis are available, but are not used much due to faulty meters and limited availability. Car rentals are available at the airport and major hotels; international driving permits are required for non-GCC visitors. Most hotels offer private drivers or shuttle service upon request. There are no trams or trains between neighborhoods in Riyadh.

In Riyadh, modest dressing is required in public spaces, but the rules have been relaxed in recent years. Women no longer have to wear the abaya or cover their hair, but most wear loose, long-sleeved clothing and full-length skirts or trousers to fit in with the culture. Headscarves are optional for foreign women but may be required at religious sites. Men should avoid shorts above the knee and sleeveless tops in public; long trousers and shirts are the norm. Traditional Saudi attire, like the thobe and ghutra, is common among locals but not required for visitors. In malls, restaurants, and government buildings, security may deny entry for clothing that’s too revealing or too tight. Dress codes are more relaxed in private spaces like hotels, embassy compounds, and some high-end venues. There are no penalties for not following the dress code, but it’s highly recommended to follow local customs.

As one of the famous cities in Saudi Arabia, Riyadh is home to endless attractions and fun things to do. Some of the best places to visit in Riyadh are mentioned below:

One of the best Riyadh attractions is At Turaif! This UNESCO World Heritage Site was the original home of the Saudi royal family and the birthplace of the first Saudi state in the 18th century. Located towards the north of Riyadh, At-Turaif has been beautifully restored with mudbrick palaces, narrow streets, and museums that tell the story of early Saudi Arabia. Tickets are required, and guided tours are available. Evening visits are highly recommended as you get to witness amazing live performances and beautiful illuminations.

On the 99th floor, 300 meters above the city, the Sky Bridge offers the best view of Riyadh. You can access it through a high-speed elevator in the Kingdom Centre Mall. Tickets are affordable, and visiting at sunset is highly recommended if you are after some Instagrammable photos. The mall below features many international boutiques and gourmet restaurants offering a great shopping experience with views.

Among the best Riyadh tourist attractions is dune bashing at Red Sand Dunes! About 45 minutes north of Riyadh, the Red Sand Dunes offer off-road adventures with rented 4x4s, quad bikes, or dune buggies. Local tour operators also provide half-day packages including transportation, equipment, and refreshments. The best time to visit is in the late afternoon or early morning to avoid the heat. No permits are required, but booking in advance on weekends is highly suggested to avoid the crowds.

Wondering where to eat in Riyadh? No fret! Here we have enlisted the best places where you can have your meal, so let’s immerse ourselves in the diverse flavors Jeddah has to offer!

In the Al-Wurud district, Najd Village serves authentic central Saudi dishes in a traditional Najdi setting. Guests may sit on floor cushions in private booths surrounded by mudbrick walls and palm decor. The menu includes margoug, mataziz, jareesh, and camel meat with rice. Meals are served in big portions, in a family-style environment.

In the golden glass sphere on top of Al Faisaliah Tower, The Globe features 360° views of Riyadh at an altitude of 240 meters. The Globe offers European fine dining and crafts dishes like foie gras, lobster thermidor, and wagyu beef. It is among the few restaurants in Riyadh with a formal dress code and multi-course tasting menu. There is also private elevator access, and reservations are required.

In Al Olaya, Myazu combines high-end Japanese with drama. Black cod miso, wagyu beef sliders, and sushi with gold leaf are some of the mouthwatering dishes offered here. The restaurant features a sleek interior, dim lighting, and a DJ on weekends.

Wrapping up, from historic forts to futuristic towers, Riyadh sightseeing offers a dynamic blend of tradition and innovation. Pack your curiosity (and sunscreen) — the capital’s ready to surprise you at every turn.